Foraging and Grounding in Nature

During a weekend of personal and ecological connection with the Organizational Exploratory Program retreat, participants had a chance to spend an afternoon nurturing their connection to the land through an afternoon of foraging — led by the wonderful Tasha Elena Stevens-Vallecillo of 42 Acres.

Exploring the natural landscape and greenery among the retreat center in Frome, UK, Tasha shared with us stories of the land, allowed participants to try and taste plants from the land (including Wild Garlic, wildflowers, and more!), what plants are poisonous and look like other edible plants (don’t confuse hemlock and wild celery!), and the work they are doing to preserve and regenerate the land at 42 Acres.

A Reflection on Foraging

Foraging in nature is more than just gathering sustenance or taking from the land; it's a profound act of communion with the natural world, reminding us that we are deeply interconnected with our environment. It's a reminder to approach nature not as a resource to exploit, but as a partner to celebrate and cherish. When we forage, we enter into a dialogue with the ecosystem, learning its rhythms and respecting its limits. Through this connection, we not only nourish our bodies but also our souls, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility to the intricate web of life that sustains us. So let us tread lightly, with gratitude and reverence, as we walk among the wonders of nature, recognizing that our relationship with it is one of reciprocity and mutual respect. Nourishing the land, in turn, nourishes us.

Stay tuned for an upcoming opportunity to listen to Tasha share about her own experience as a keeper of the land and how ecological belonging relates to her own story and experience.